Female officers from security and defence forces in Manyara Region have been encouraged to actively engage in income-generating activities to strengthen their financial independence and reduce reliance on monthly salaries.
The call was made by the Deputy Minister in the President’s Office for Public Service Management and Good Governance, Regina Ndege, during the Women Officers’ Day held in Babati District.
Opening a capacity-building training session for the officers, Ndege said it was important for women in uniform to explore economic opportunities available within the country in order to improve their livelihoods.
She said depending solely on salaries is no longer sustainable, urging the officers to adopt innovative ways of increasing their income through legally approved ventures.
Ndege also cautioned against engaging in exploitative loan schemes that force borrowers to surrender ATM cards, noting that such arrangements often lead to financial distress.
Instead, she encouraged the officers to take advantage of economic opportunities supported by the sixth-phase government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
She further called on the officers to continue working closely with communities in maintaining peace and security, while also strengthening efforts to address gender-based violence, especially against children.
Chairperson of the Women Police Network in Manyara, Senior Superintendent of Police Christina Mkonongo, said the unity among female officers has strengthened cooperation in daily operations and enhanced their engagement in community support activities.
Babati District Police Commander, Senior Superintendent of Police Ernesta Mwambinga, said the training aimed to build the capacity of female officers in economic empowerment, health awareness and social relations.
She noted that improving financial literacy among officers is essential, as it enables them to manage their resources effectively and contribute more efficiently to community service.
Chairperson of the Women Prisons Officers Network in the region, Senior Superintendent of Prisons Elizabeth Morembwa, said the training would also improve service delivery in correctional facilities by boosting officers’ confidence and professionalism.
She added that strengthening the capacity of officers will enhance rehabilitation programmes for inmates, helping them reintegrate into society as responsible citizens.
